Budget sets Australia up for a STEM-powered future
Australia’s tech and engineering academy has welcomed the investments in science and research in tonight’s Federal Budget.
Australia’s tech and engineering academy has welcomed the investments in science and research in tonight’s Federal Budget.
This has included much-needed additional funds for Australia’s publicly-funded research agencies – including CSIRO – as well as tangible steps towards implementing the Ambitious Australia report.
Quotes attributable to ATSE CEO, Professor Kylie Walker AM
“We welcome the investment in publicly-funded research – including the commitment of $387 million over four years for CSIRO.
“This will help provide much needed funding for Australia’s research agencies to continue their vital work – agencies who are at the front lines of developing and commercialising the tech of the future, from pandemic preparedness to more sustainable agriculture.”
“Investment in research and development is one of the most important things a government can do to build a healthier and more prosperous country. It’s a safe and proven bet that we know will pay dividends.
“We do share the disappointment that this has come at the same time as cuts to important initiatives like the Australian Economic Accelerator – and acknowledge the impact that this will have on researchers who have invested substantial time and resources in submitting applications.
“We are heartened to see the Government taking concrete, tangible steps to start to implement the Ambitious Australia report’s recommendations, such as reforming the R&D tax incentive to encourage innovation and collaboration with research bodies.
“Ambitious Australia is an important blueprint for how Australia’s research, development and innovation system can evolve to support a more advanced and productive economy over the coming decades – and the Budget provides important funding towards making that happen.
“And we’re excited to see meaningful steps towards Australia joining the EU’s flagship research funding program, Horizon Europe – which help make Australian R&D more competitive, opening up new connections, and strengthen international relationships.
“In future budgets we look forward to seeing investments in building the workforce Australia needs for a strong future, including a much-needed extension to ATSE’s nation-leading Elevate scholarship program, which will help support more women and non-binary people to make waves in STEM.”
Media enquiries: Tim Hurd 0447 427 292 tim.hurd@atse.org.au
